In the April issue of MSW we told about NASSCO’s plans to require recertification of the Pipeline Assessment and Certification Program (PACP) for trainers and users of the data. The subject is worthy of an update because the requirements are now in place, the modules have been updated, and it’s time to inform all PACP trainers and users about the need to recertify.

Do you know the status of your PACP recertification? If not, contact NASSCO soon. But for now, here is what you need to know.

 

If you are a PACP user

PACP users must become recertified every three years ($175 for NASSCO members and $225 for nonmembers). You will receive a six-month notification of expiration by email, so please make sure we have your current information.

Users can complete recertification online or through a Master Trainer. For online recertification training, you need to pass a proctored exam at a pre-approved location. Major changes and updates have been made to the PACP manual, so if your manual is older than version 4.43 (released in June 2010), you will need a new one (version 6.0, $100 plus shipping) for recertification. If your version is 4.43 or newer, you can download free updates in the Manual Updates section of www.nassco.org.

 

If you are a PACP trainer

Your skills will be tested every 18 months ($275). In the past, NASSCO offered trainers automatic recertification based on the number of classes taught. We now have a comprehensive application process and a more structured syllabus to lead you through the program.

You will be asked to review the online recertification modules and take the written knowledge-based exam before attending an in-class evaluation by a NASSCO-certified master trainer who will evaluate your ability to lead, educate, encourage and instill knowledge among a class of 10 participants. You may also be required to submit a coded video for review before being accepted for training.

 

Be prepared

We want to ensure that cities and organizations budget for user recertification and are not caught off-guard. NASSCO’s mission to set industry standards for the assessment and rehabilitation of underground pipelines, and to assure the continued acceptance and growth of trenchless technologies, relies on maintaining the highest integrity of data.

This requires an investment in training time and costs to ensure the best possible outcomes. While the cost of recertification and, in some cases, updating of manuals, is something that must be budgeted, the online portion will allow users to refresh their PACP knowledge without travel or other expenses.

For more information or to inquire about your recertification status and requirements, contact NASSCO at info@nassco.org or 410/486-3500. F

Ted DeBoda is executive director of NASSCO. He can be reached at director@nassco.org. NASSCO is located at 11521 Cronridge Drive, Suite J, Owings Mills, MD 21117.